Staff and students from Keele’s School of Nursing and Midwifery have continued their annual tradition of helping sick pilgrims make their spiritual journey to Lourdes.

Dean for Education and Senior Lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery Dr Julie Green, along with a group of the University’s nursing students, travelled for 24 hours by coach to accompany pilgrims making their annual journey to the historic holy site in south-western France.

The cohort from Keele was also joined by Sandra Broome from the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust; Paula Wood from the Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust; and art student Laura Green who travelled with the group in 2018 to compile an illustrated book about the pilgrimage.

Copies of the book were sold to raise money for pilgrims to travel, with students and staff fundraising to cover the cost of the trip.

Dr Green said: “Whilst in Lourdes we worked alongside the Birmingham Diocese Nursing Team of nurses and carers, many of whom have undertaken this trip annually for many years. We quickly became part of this team, making friendships that will last a lifetime.

“The week included a range of shifts, religious celebrations, a concert, anointing of the sick, companionship and lots of laughs.

“There were many positive comments about the team who have been excellent representatives for Keele. This has been a great experience, and planning starts now for Lourdes 2020.”